What Is Pre-Demolition and What Does It Include?

Created on:

February 27, 2023

Pre-demolition is the process of preparing a structure and its surroundings for demolition. It includes several steps and is as important as the actual demo. Here are some of the steps involved in the pre-demolition process:

What Is Pre-Demolition?

Pre-demolition is the process of inspecting a property before demolition. It's an important part of demolition for safety reasons, for it helps you find out about hidden dangers in your home and keep you and your employees safe during the actual demolition.

Pre-demolition allows you to take care of any issues before they become a problem later on during demolition work so that everyone stays safe!

Pre-Demolition Checklist

A pre-demolition checklist is a list of items that need to be inspected and completed before you begin your demolition project. The following items should be included on your pre-demolition checklist:

  • Disconnection of Utilities
  • Asbestos Survey 
  • Sewer Plugging 
  • Pest Control Inspection 
  • State Notification 

Disconnect Utilities Before Demolition

When you hire a demolition company, they need to disconnect the utilities from your home or building. This includes electricity, gas, and water. This step might seem obvious, but it is an important step to remember to keep everyone on site safe before, during, and after the demolition.

Asbestos Survey Before Demolition

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in many construction materials in the early to mid-1900s. It's dangerous when it's disturbed and causes lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other serious diseases. Asbestos is found in many older types of buildings including schools, hospitals, factories, and offices.

Asbestos surveys involve inspecting for asbestos before demolition begins so that the material is removed safely. The inspector checks all areas where there could have been asbestos during construction or renovation work. This includes:

  • Roofs
  • Ceilings
  • Floor tiles
  • Insulation materials 

Sewer Plug/Cap

A sewer plug is a temporary cap that prevents debris from entering the sewer system. Sewer plugs are required by law in most jurisdictions because they prevent damage to underground pipes and other infrastructure during demolition work. A licensed plumber or contractor is required to come out and plug/cap the sewage lines.

Ensuring Property is Rodent Free

A rodent letter is a document that guarantees a property is rodent-free. It's important to have this in place before demolition because if there are any rodents on your site after demolition has begun, the rodents flee to neighboring buildings or areas of shelter.

To get a rodent letter, you need a licensed pest control company to come out on-site and inspect your property for any living creatures. If your property is pest free, they provide you with the proper documentation. If your building has a pest problem, they perform extermination services, and then provide you with the proper documentation. Demolition cannot begin until your property is guaranteed pest-free. 

State Notification For Demolition

You need to notify your state that you are performing a demo. Most states require that you notify them before a demo, and it usually needs to be done at least 10 days before the scheduled demo. Professional demolition companies should take care of the state notification for you. 

Thorough Inspection Prevents Unnecessary Dangers

Pre-demolition is a crucial step in the demolition process. Pre-demolition allows you to inspect your property before it's demolished. This makes it easier for you to find out whether or not there are any issues that need attention before demolition begins. With a thorough inspection and pre-demolition checklist, any hidden dangers are discovered before demolition begins and prevent unnecessary dangers.

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